Ashley Smith's Confinement And Modern Society

Ashley Smith's case is a tragic example of how the concepts discussed in Garland's book, "Punishment and Modern Society," play out in real life.

Firstly, her extended periods of solitary confinement can be understood through Garland's concept of the "culture of control," which refers to the societal desire for increased control and surveillance of individuals who are seen as deviant or dangerous. The desire for control is reflected in the criminal justice system, which uses increasingly severe forms of punishment, such as imprisonment and solitary confinement, as a means of exerting control over individuals. Ashley's behavior was seen as deviant and she was subjected to repeated periods of solitary confinement, which worsened her mental health

She was a young girl who needed help and support, but instead was subjected to solitary confinement, which only worsened her condition. It's difficult to pinpoint one specific person or entity responsible for her death, as there were several factors at play.

The prison system, which is responsible for the care of inmates, failed Ashley by placing her in solitary confinement for extended periods of time, despite her deteriorating mental health. The guards who were instructed not to enter her cell if she was breathing also share responsibility for her death, as they failed to provide the necessary medical attention and care she needed.

Additionally, society as a whole must take responsibility for Ashley's death. Mental illness is still stigmatized and often neglected, and resources for mental health care are lacking. If Ashley had received proper treatment for her illness, she may still be alive today.

Foucault's theories are also relevant to understanding Ashley Smith's case, as they provide a framework for understanding the ways in which power operates in the criminal justice

Power-knowledge refers to the way in which power operates through the production and dissemination of knowledge. In Ashley's case, the criminal justice system produced knowledge about her behavior and mental health issues that were used to justify her prolonged periods of solitary confinement. This knowledge was produced within the context of the culture of control and the new penology, which emphasized punishment and control over care and support.

Finally, Foucault's concept of "governmentality" is also relevant to Ashley's case. Governmentality refers to the way in which power operates through the management and control of populations. In Ashley's case, the criminal justice system used punishment and control as a means of managing and controlling her behavior, rather than providing her with the care and support she needed.

Overall, Foucault's theories provide a framework for understanding the ways in which power operates in the criminal justice system, and how this power is used to control and manage individuals who are seen as deviant or dangerous. Ashley's case reflects the ways in which power operates through the disciplinary society, power-knowledge, and governmentality, and highlights the need for a more compassionate and supportive approach to individuals with mental health issues within the criminal justice